Driven - Volvo C40 Recharge
Quick Facts
- Price: R1 285 000
- Engine: 78 kW/h battery with dual-electric motors
- Range: 444 km (WLTP)
- Power/Torque: 300kW and 660Nm
- 0-100: 4,7 seconds
Volvo has launched the fully-electric C40 based on their XC40 P8 Recharge. We flew to Cape Town to sample the model and were completely impressed by the Coupe SUV.
In terms of looks, the model looks gorgeous. Upfront, Thor’s hammer headlights (these headlights also house 84-pixels that do a better job at not dazzling oncoming drivers. The closed-off grille will tell you that the model is electric. At the rear, you get a slopping roof with LED taillights that extend up to the. C-pillar. They also do a "dance" upon locking or unlocking. The model's shape has also been said to be better at drag.
Inside, The materials and fit-and-finish are on par with the price, and there is no shortage of clever packaging and design aspects, such as leather-free seats - most of the cabin is created from recycled materials. Backlit trim panels on the dashboard and doors glow to reveal an abstract image of a topographical map, which is exclusive to the C40 Recharge. At the centre, lies an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment with screen mirroring capabilities as well as Android Automotive OS. The C40 Recharge also comes standard with a glass roof, heated seats, a heated steering wheel, a Harman Kardon audio system that sounds amazing, and an electrically operated tailgate.
A battery pack with 75.0 kWh of useable energy storage is located under the floor of the all-wheel drive C40 Recharge Twin Motor and should provide roughly 400 kilometres of driving range on a single charge. The model will also charge from 10 to 80% in under 30 minutes when using a fast charger and that is an impressive feat.
Another impressive feat is how it is able to sprint from a standstill to 100 in an impressive manner of just 4.7 seconds. The 300kW and 660 nm of torque feel extremely amazing. Although it isn't a sports car and doesn't aim for maximum driver involvement, it is very laid back and simple to drive, with light steering and a firm enough suspension to maintain body control. However, one cannot overlook the potential oomph. The car's huge (20-inch) alloy wheels didn't noticeably affect the ride quality and one could only wonder how great the ride would even be should there be a 19-inch alloy on offer.
Overall, the Volvo C40 Recharge looks great and has an even more amazing powertrain. The model will definitely attract a few eyes especially those who are into Coupe SUVs. As the only Coupe-shaped EV in Mzansi currently, we are pretty sure that it will be finding its way into various homes. At a price of R1 285 000, it is decently priced and offers class-leading torque.
Price R1 285 000
